Rooney Mara in ‘Mary Magdalene’ trailer offers a new perspective on Lent

Two-time Academy Award nominee Rooney Mara is stepping into the shoes of Mary Magdalene, the biblical figure with a besmirched reputation and redemptive arc.

Mara follows the charismatic leader Jesus (Joaquin Phoenix) as he journeys to Jerusalem, adapted into a screenplay by British writers Helen Edmundson and Philippa Goslett. 

"Mary Magdalene" is directed by Garth Davis ("Lion"). Joining the cast are Chiwetel Ejiofor and Tahar Rahim. 

Early reviews contain praise for Mara's performance and the film's fresh take on the Story of Lent.

Variety describes the film as "Hushed, deliberate and realized with considerable care and beauty" and The Hollywood Reporter says that it is "an admirably bold effort, crafted with conviction and a strong aesthetic vision."

"Mary Magdalene" opens in Philippine theaters on March 21. — Aya Tantiangco, GMA News